Daijiworld Media Network - Mapusa
Mapusa, Jun 10: The Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) has intensified its pre-monsoon food safety enforcement drive, conducting a surprise inspection of street food stalls near the now-defunct Alankar Cinema in Mapusa and uncovering multiple violations of hygiene and food safety regulations.
The Alankar area, a well-known hub for street food lovers, has long been under scrutiny by the FDA due to recurring complaints and concerns regarding sanitation standards and food handling practices.
During the inspection, officials examined seven food stalls that were operating in the area. Following the inspection, five vendors were instructed to immediately stop cooking activities after authorities identified several breaches of prescribed food safety and hygiene norms.
According to FDA officials, many of the vendors had previously faced similar action and were repeatedly warned about maintaining proper standards. While they were allowed to resume business after rectifying deficiencies and complying with regulatory requirements, inspectors found that several operators had reverted to unsafe practices shortly after reopening.
Officials expressed concern over what they described as a pattern of repeated non-compliance despite continuous monitoring and enforcement efforts.
“The vendors have consistently failed to adhere to basic hygiene requirements and food safety regulations despite repeated warnings and corrective measures,” an FDA official said.
The department has also attempted to improve standards through awareness campaigns, training programmes and educational initiatives aimed at helping vendors understand and implement safe food handling practices. However, authorities noted that these efforts have not resulted in long-term compliance.
In response to the recurring violations, the FDA is now considering stronger legal action against the offending vendors. The department has also proposed imposing a ban on cooking activities in the Alankar area until operators demonstrate sustained adherence to food safety and hygiene standards.
Officials said the move is intended to protect consumers and ensure that food sold to the public meets the minimum safety requirements mandated under the law.
The FDA further announced that similar inspections will be stepped up across Goa during the pre-monsoon season, a period when food contamination risks typically increase due to weather-related factors.
The inspection was carried out by Designated Officer (North Goa) Richard Noronha along with Food Safety Officers Amit Mandrekar, Lenin De Sa and Darlan Diukar under the supervision of FDA Director Shweta Dessai.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to safeguarding public health and warned that strict action would be taken against establishments found violating food safety regulations.